By John Whiting Tax Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers

John Whiting talks tax

Here are my top 10 tips for making sure you're not paying too much tax.

If you can't manage all 10, just make the resolution to take tax seriously!

If you are employed, or - especially - a pensioner, check your tax code! Has HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) got it right? Remember this is what governs what tax you lose during the year.

For savings generally, think tax efficiency: don't just think ISAs but check your pensions position and bear in mind Premium Bonds prizes are tax free. If you are looking for wider-range investments, consider the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Venture Capital Trusts.

If you are a non taxpayer, register to get interest gross (ask your bank/ building society for form R85) or get your tax back.

Manage any capital disposals carefully to minimise Capital Gains Tax - take care over tapering and use as many annual exemptions as possible.

Use your personal allowance - everyone has the first �5,225 of income (2007/08) tax free. If your spouse has little or no income, can you transfer investments to him or her? Or bring them into your business?

Claim Tax Credits if you're entitled to them. The Children's Tax Credit is worth over �10 a week even when family incomes reach �50,000 and can still give some benefit for higher incomes. Use your Child Trust Fund voucher if you have one.

Think about Inheritance Tax - the �300,000 threshold (2007/8) is easily swallowed up by a modest house in many areas. Do you need to do some planning now and possibly start some gifting?

Watch your expenses position - can you claim for additional travel expenses or the costs of working from home? Remember tax relief is available on charitable gifts (Gift Aid). Look at options from your employer such as childcare vouchers or other tax-efficient benefits.

Is your company car really worth it, or would a cash option be better? If you get free private fuel, check it's really worth it. If you claim mileage payments for business travel, check you are claiming all you can.

Bear in mind that there is a lot of tax on spending: tobacco, alcohol and petrol all have excise duties (and VAT) on them. Eating out, including hot takeaways, carries VAT. You could save tax by altering your spending pattern!

The opinions expressed are John's, not the programme's. The tips are not intended to be definitive and should be used for guidance only. Always seek professional advice for your own particular situation.